Annapolis Restaurant Buzz | January 2009
By James Houck
It’s a new year and there’s no shortage of new restaurants worth seeking out. The Buzz has alluded to newbies on the scene in recent issues, but we finally enjoyed the opportunity to visit several and learn what makes them tick. One of our faves, right off the bat, is Stoney River Legendary Steaks. We attended a soft, V.I.P. opening during which we sampled signature dishes and mingled with staff. Whiskey shrimp on country toast was an excellent opener, before we supped on grilled filet mignon, Szechuan-seared salmon, and Stoney River’s addictive house bread rolls, known as Stone Puppies. The expansive, high ceilinged interior with large fireplace mimics an Aspen hideaway that in another time and place might be owned by the likes of Hugh Heffner. In all the experience was comfortable, cozy, and posh. This coming spring, live jazz will be performed on the outdoor patio and the restaurant plans to host cooking demonstrations. The restaurant is open and has their legs under them, so make a point to try the Stoney River experience for yourself.
The Buzz also made a passing mention last month of Gordon Biersch Brewing Company at the new Annapolis Towne Center at Parole. The California-based, upscale brewpub recently opened with great fanfare as founding partner Dan Gordon welcomed us to his newest restaurant (the 29th nationally). We sat down with Gordon as he explained the inspiration beyond his line of restaurants and beers (studying abroad in Munich, Germany for starters), many of the dishes offered (interesting story about his signature garlic fries), and the brewing process from start to finish. He was extremely generous and courteous to us, a testament to the overall experience you’ll enjoy on your visit to this impressive restaurant. The beers are all German-inspired, the food features American classics with spicy influence (from Southwestern to European to Asian), and the atmosphere is exciting near the bar and open kitchen and a bit more private in between. Check out our
video tour of the restaurant and exclusive footage of our conversation with Dan Gordon (he reveals the epiphany of the garlic fries!).
There are now two new bakeries on the block, each with a unique twist. Nostalgia Cupcakes is located in historic downtown Annapolis on Main Street and is in prime location to offer those of you with a sweet tooth, made-from-scratch premium cupcakes. Baked with zero trans-fat and only the finest ingredients (vanilla from Madagascar, chocolate from Callebaut, fresh dairy from local farmers for example), owner Sharon White’s confections are sure to be a hit. Meanwhile, Freedom Bakery recently opened in Severna Park at Park Plaza Shopping Center. The bakery offers gluten-free treats giving you the “freedom” to indulge. The gluten-free concept was inspired by co-owner, Sarah Pulcher, diagnoses of Celiac Disease, a digestive disease that damages the small intestine and interferes with absorption of nutrients from food, notably gluten, in 2007. Rest-assured, taste is not sacrificed in the many scrumptious treats that the mother- and daughter-owned bakery offers. Do visit if you’re in the area and have a hankering for something sweet.
We recently chatted with Maria’s Sicilian Ristorante, who wished to notify patrons that the restaurant will offer an “inflation-priced” menu this winter—in a good way, meaning simply, the menu’s prices have dropped in order to attract lovers of fine Italian cuisine. Owner Carlo Priola also expressed that his family’s other downtown Annapolis restaurant, Mangia, will extend open hours until 2 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. So if you’re out late, don’t hesitate to warm yourself at the sports-inspired Italian eatery. Over in Arnold’s neck of the woods, Deep Creek Restaurant’s owner Rene Hundemann, similarly expressed to us that the restaurant offers great specials throughout winter on Sundays through Thursdays, all priced under $13. For example, every Tuesday is Italian night, with a three-course meal (soup, salad, entrée). It’s a great idea, which brings us to the 5th Annual Annapolis Area Restaurant Week, taking place March 8–13. Building off of last year’s highly successful restaurant week (over 6,000 of you enjoyed it!), participating area restaurants will offer a three-course dinner for $28.95, two-course dinner for $22.96, or two-course lunch for $11.95. The event is a great opportunity to enjoy top-quality cuisine at rock bottom pricing from the area’s best restaurants. For more information and a list of all participants,
click here.
jan 09
annapolis
james houck
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